Public Health Situation Analysis - Jordan

Jordan remains an island of stability in a region afflicted by volatility and despite the numerous challenges posed by the repeated external shocks over the past decade. These shocks, stemming from the Iraq and Syria crises, COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis, have impacted economic and social dimensions.

The onset of the Gaza war on 7 October 2023 has further exacerbated Jordan’s economic and social challenges, particularly in sectors such as energy, logistics, tourism, and international trade, but consequences have been contained.

However, on 17 June 2025, Jordan's King Abdullah II warned that Israel's "attacks" on Iran threatened to dangerously escalate tensions in the "region and beyond". Israel says its air campaign aims to prevent its sworn enemy from acquiring nuclear weapons, an ambition Tehran denies.

The U.S. State Department issued security alerts on 13 June for several Middle Eastern countries, including Jordan. The Government of Jordan has now activated civil defense alarms in the event of missiles, drones, or rockets entering Jordanian airspace. The Royal Jordanian Air Force conducted increased air surveillance missions across the northern and eastern borders in June 2025 to deter potential spillovers from the conflict, as confirmed by Jordan’s Armed Forces.

More broadly, thirteen years into the Syrian crisis, Jordan has transitioned beyond the initial humanitarian emergency. However, significant needs remain for Syrian refugees, including access to shelter, balanced diets, and safety. Jordan hosts the world's second-highest share of refugees per capita with 3.5 million refugees residing in the country. Despite the strain on its own resources, the government has prioritized refugee inclusion, offering access to primary and secondary healthcare through its national health system.